Generation of Bilayer Asymmetry and Membrane Curvature by the Sugar-Cleaving Enzyme Invertase

The catalytic action of invertase generates bilayer asymmetry that stabilises membrane curvature. The driving mechanism for the generation of membrane curvature by invertase is investigated using giant unilamellar vesicles (GUVs). The invertase cleaves the sucrose in the exterior compartment, thereby creating a sugar asymmetry across the bilayer membrane that is measured for GUV membranes consisting of the lipid Dioleoylphosphatidylcholine (DOPC). Finally, the advantage of this method to control membrane curvature and to stabilize multi-sphere morphologies is demonstrated. The GUV system in the presence of invertase is beneficial as a tool to generate multiple on-demand compartments with more extended stability after the enzymatic activity has established the asymmetry.